Abstract:

Siirt, which is one of the fields where spring salt is produced by traditional methods, is located in the Bitlis-Zagros Suture Zone and the Edge Folds Belt. Saltpans are located on the valley bottom of the Botan, Kezer and Bitlis streams and tributary of its, in area flat and close to flat and at different elevations. In addition to the geological features of the study area, favorable climatic conditions are important in terms of continuing salt production without destroying nature. In the study, in Siirt province, the geographical distribution of the spring saltpans was made and their socio-economic, cultural effects and importance were examined. Throughout the study, geological maps, climate parameters, satellite images and various reports were used. The population data of the field was obtained from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the maps were produced with ArcGIS software. In addition, field studies were carried out and interviews were conducted with fourteen salt producers. About ninety people earn their livelihood from salt production which is an alternative economic activity in rural areas. According to the results obtained, annual average 7.150 tons of salt have produced from the saltpans, between the years 2019-2021. It has been observed that the spring salts are known and purchased by the local people of Siirt as well as the locals surrounding provinces. Salt production is costly, laborious and low-income. Despite this, being a high unemployment, the prevalence of animal husbandry, cheese making and brine culture explains the importance of salt for the local people. In addition, unfavorable climatic conditions, which are effective from time to time during and before the salt production season, affect the production. This negative effect can be eliminated by the construction of modern greenhouse type ponds. Interviews with salt producers showed that salt production will be continued in the future with the improvement of salt conditions and income. For this, the improvement of saltpans; it is necessary to produce salt by the food codex regulation, to establish a grinding and packaging facility, and to collaborate with cooperatives. Thus, salt production should be supported to contribute to rural development.

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